One of FSC Empower Women’s core objectives is to enhance the financial wellbeing of women, and the recent introduction of financial education into the New Zealand school curriculum marks a significant step towards laying a strong foundation to achieve this goal.
As Janet Yellen, former US Secretary of the Treasury, insightfully noted in 2021, "Research does show that education - especially early education - about how to navigate personal finances can have a lasting, positive impact on people's lives. It can be part of our strategy for building a more equitable economy."
Commencing in 2026, the updated curriculum will be implemented across Years 1 to 10. This vital programme has been developed through a collaborative partnership between the Ministry of Education and Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission, with valuable contributions from leading providers such as ASB and Westpac.
Teaching fundamental concepts such as distinguishing needs from wants, budgeting, and setting up a bank account, before progressing into more advanced topics including investments, taxes, insurance, scam awareness, and KiwiSaver.
Ultimately, this initiative aims to equip students with essential financial skills that will empower them to become confident, financially savvy young adults. By fostering positive financial habits early on, the programme supports not only individual success but also contributes to building a stronger, more resilient economy.
To learn more about this exciting programme, listen to RNZ’s interview with Jared Hutchinson here.
